Broadcast from Manchester, England, UFC 105 was televised in US on Spike TV and featured both winners of ‘The Ultimate Fighter: US vs UK’ making their post-TUF UFC debut. The UK coach Michael Bisping was also on the card, taking on Dennis Kang and looking to rebound from the brutal knockout loss at the hands of Dan Henderson in his last bout. The main event had Randy Couture returning to the light-heavyweight weight class against Brandon Vera, and Mike Swick took on Dan Hardy in the co-main for a shot at the UFC welterweight title.
Ross Pearson vs. Aaron Riley (155 lbs)
Round 1: After some initial circling, Pearson begins to find his striking range, and scores with punches and kicks. Pearson clinches and pushes Riley against the fence, then unloads a series of knees. Riley breaks free and tries to fire back but can’t get any offense going. Pearson clinches again, punishing Riley with knees and elbows. Pearson mixing up his striking and most attacks are right on target. Round 10-9 Pearson
Round 2: Riley tries to be the aggressor early in the second but Pearson quickly forces another clinch. Riley keeps trying to regain some distance but is being punished in striking range as well as in clinch. Pearson lands a flying knee and Riley starts bleeding profusely. The fight is stopped to check the cut and the ringside doctor calls an end to the bout.
Aftermath: A good post-TUF debut for Ross Pearson, completely shutting down a veteran opponent. He should face Melvin Guillard in his next bout, to truly test Pearson’s impressive striking game. Riley does not show much in the loss, and will likely be used as a fodder for other lightweight prospects.
Fight Grade: 3.5/5
[#6 MW] 
[#12 MW] 
[#13 W125] 
[#11 SW] 
